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So I have a "custom" 61 with a much later (>74) 351w. It's hooked up to run on what I assume to be the original 3 wire generator. I was wondering if there's anything I should pay close attention to on the electrical system, should I keep the modified original harness or run a harness from a later model truck? As I understand it an alternator system will be more reliable and powerful.
For starters, that's not a Windsor, it's a 351 Cleveland. It looks like it's been awhile since it's run last, so you may want to investigate the condition of the engine before worrying too much about the charging system.
That said, you don't need a wiring harness from something later model. The factory harness will suffice, assuming it's in good condition, or replacing the wiring with a stock type or generic aftermarket kit will do everything you need. You'd just need to make any necessary modifications to change from generator to alternator. You'll need an alternator type voltage regulator to go with it, and there are tons of wiring diagrams out there you can follow to make the necessary changes.
For starters, that's not a Windsor, it's a 351 Cleveland. It looks like it's been awhile since it's run last, so you may want to investigate the condition of the engine before worrying too much about the charging system.
That said, you don't need a wiring harness from something later model. The factory harness will suffice, assuming it's in good condition, or replacing the wiring with a stock type or generic aftermarket kit will do everything you need. You'd just need to make any necessary modifications to change from generator to alternator. You'll need an alternator type voltage regulator to go with it, and there are tons of wiring diagrams out there you can follow to make the necessary changes.
Good eye! So is the Cleveland a good bet for longevity? It's been fired up recently and I'm in the process of tearing it down and de crudding everything in frame. On the topic I found some rubber freeze plugs behind the motor mount so wish me luck with that lol. I also got a set of continental black leather bucket seats w/ console to drop in but that's not really here or there.
The 351 Cleveland is a great engine and will have all the power your truck needs. As for longevity, it will last as long as any engine, it all depends on how it's been cared for. Any engine maintained as it should and not thrashed will last over 100,000 miles. If not, all bets are off. Assuming you have no other history on yours, no one can tell you any more than that. Your truck looks like a really fun project, and I do wish you well with it.
The 351C,351M and 400 look a lot alike. The 351C uses the small block bell housing except for some very early 400's that had dual pattern blocks the 351m/400's are big block pattern. Measure between the top two bolts on the bellhousing the 351C's are 5 1/8-inch center to center. I've had a 351C or two around for over 30 years and they are great engines but there are a couple of things you need to be aware of. First and foremost, the 351 Cleveland and the 351M/400 use a different thermostat than the any other Ford engine. If you buy a thermostat from a parts house 90% chance, they will give you the wrong part and you will cook up and run hot at idle.
This is the best one out there and is an exact copy of the Robert Shaw 333, Track Boss Products – High-Flo Thermostat – Cleveland
You should not need the bypass plate if your engine still has the original brass one in it. The 351M/400 don't use the plate since that is cast into the block.
There is another thermostat that will work but it isn't HI-Flow. Stant 13468
Of the 351C core motors I've tore down only one had the correct thermostat.
I agree on the similarity of all the 335 family engines, it can be hard to say. I made the call it's a 351C vs a M or 400 by the narrow intake and the proximity of the choke stove to the carb base and valve cover, and the tightness of the distance around the heads, block, water neck, etc. But I could be wrong. The Cleveland intake should be around 9" wide where the M/400 is closer to 12.
I agree on the similarity of all the 335 family engines, it can be hard to say. I made the call it's a 351C vs a M or 400 by the narrow intake and the proximity of the choke stove to the carb base and valve cover, and the tightness of the distance around the heads, block, water neck, etc. But I could be wrong. The Cleveland intake should be around 9" wide where the M/400 is closer to 12.
351C
400
I'll measure it this afternoon and let you guys know, thanks a bunch this is a very helpful place!
